Daniel Joseph Rado

Daniel Joseph Rado
Daniel Joseph Rado, 79, formerly of Naugatuck, passed away peacefully December 20, 2025, in the comfort of his home. He was the husband of the late Gloria Frances (DeVito) Rado, who passed away in 2016. They were married for 30 years.
Mr. Rado was born May 27, 1946, in Waterbury, the son of the late Daniel Joseph Rado Sr. and Florence Lucy (Galgano) Rado. He was educated in Naugatuck, attending St. Francis School and graduating from Naugatuck High School Class of 1964. He furthered his education at Post University in Waterbury and then earned a draftsman degree. He was employed with Griffith Construction, where he was a designer of many exquisite homes.
He lived a life full of adventure, traveling far and wide. He cherished time spent with his friends, children, and especially his grandchildren. He loved all things baseball. In quieter moments, he enjoyed reading or watching horse racing.
Summers were happily spent in Cape Cod, Lake George, and in Saratoga at the track. He was deeply content retiring to Florida in 2011 with his wife, Gloria, and their beloved dog, Jeter. A best friend to many, especially to his children, he had an ability for knowing when someone truly needed him-and he was always there. He had a big heart, was a rational man, and had a great sense of humor.
He is survived by his daughter, Danielle Smokler and her husband, Matthew of Chelmsford, MA; his son, Nicholas Brooks and his wife, Jessica of Slingerlands, NY; his daughter, Alicia McGrath and her husband, Bill Montaigne of McHenry, IL; his brother, David Rado (Loreen); his sisters, Deborah Griffith (Carl) and Mary Simpson (Glen); his grandchildren, Isabella, Sophia, Olivia and Mason Brooks and Mia Smokler; as well as many nieces, nephews, and godchildren. In addition to his wife and his parents, he was predeceased by his nephew, Christopher Griffith; and his great-niece, Addison Barrett.
Arrangements – Visitation will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Buckmiller Ford Mengacci Funeral Home, 82 Fairview Ave., Naugatuck. At 10:30, Mr. Rado's procession will leave the funeral home and proceed to St. Francis of Assisi Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105. For online condolences, to share a photo or a story, please visit www.fordfh.com .